Aug 23, 2006

That is funny thing to tell the people after he has been the PM for nearly 3 years. Now only people realise that he is the PM of Malaysia or people actually dont, and that is why this statement is required?.

Extracted from BERNAMAAbdullah Says His Intention To Serve As The PM, Nothing Else

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 23 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said Wednesday he carried out his duty as the prime minister in the interests of the country, people and religion and that he did not have any other intention.

"My job as the prime minister does not come with any other intention or objective," he said at a "Spirit of the Jalur Gemilang (National Flag)" gathering of taxi operators and drivers at Dataran Putra, here.

In that connection, Abdullah said, he would assist the people as much as he could.

For example, he said, he would make considerations and approvals according to his capacity pertaining to all requests and suggestions of the Taxi Operators and Drivers Association of Malaysia.

He suggested that every taxi be provided with a pictorial magazine of foodstuff, attractions and shopping centres to enable tourists have such information as soon as they board a taxi, particularly in view of Visit Malaysia Year next year.

Abdullah said the revenue from the advertisements in the magazine could be used by the association for the welfare of the taxi drivers.

He also suggested that a cassette with a compilation of local songs be provided in every taxi as a way of introducing the local arts to tourists using taxis.

"Taxi drivers must show courteousness and display a good image reflective of the people of Malaysia," he said.

The prime minister also advised taxi operators and drivers to ensure that their vehicles were clean and comfortable to ride in and performed well.

Abdullah said the taxi service was important because taxis were the first point of contact for incoming tourists.